World of Rhilamar

Dawn of Human Civilization

As we traveled we found a figure lying in the grass, expecting an ambush I approached cautiously. As I drew near, the figure began to stir and then sat up revealing an unknown woman. Taken aback by this I found myself once more silent in the company of strangers. I thought I had gotten over this. Thankfully Gundar stepped forward to take on the trying task of speech. Surprisingly, she speaks a common tongue! The woman introduced herself as Kit but other information is lost on her. This bothers me. The main reason for this being I too know very little about my past. Only the glimpses that I got from the Man and Woman who called me son that day. We welcomed her into the party, at least until we find a safe place, as traveling in a group is much safer than alone. Hopefully we can help her in some way. Not knowing who you are can be a special kind of beast.

Not long after this, as we ventured forth, we heard what sounded like a large cat creature in pain and the sounds of battle. Upon investigation we saw the corpses of small human like creatures and wolves. One of the Small creatures yet lived but was gravely injured. I rushed forward to help how I could. The creatures dialect was unknown to me but I managed to convince it that I meant it no harm. As I mended the creatures wounds I was able to see glimpses of the battle that had left this thing injured, the cause was a large Dire Tiger that was fast approaching this creatures ilk. The party then did what it does best: Gundar step forward to aid the creature with his new healing magics. Ingrodi, Ahmri, and Ellisar lay support to the other creatures with arrows, a floofy pupper, and Pony Hype. Skipper rushed off to flank the foe along with Kit, though Kit got to the creature first to her dismay as after she struck a sound blow to the creature he focused on her and let out a flurry of blows…. Hmmmm I like that…. That left her unconscious. Thankfully, the creatures had done a lot of damage to the Dire Tiger before we got there so it was easy to take down as more of us joined the fray.

The creatures, the Warvin, thanked us for our help and offered their fire and food for the night as they loaded up the corpses of all the fallen. Gundar looked sick at the idea and told Dimfoodle if the Warvine were going to eat their allies. To which Dimfoodle retorted with a best not to ask. Gundar thought for a moment but put up no further objections. Thankfully we only dined on wolf that night as we plotted our next move. Which would be to head to an old Dwarven mine before we could reach the elven ruins on the other side of a mountain. The Warvine said they would escort us as much as they could in thanks for the help but they would need a few days to pack their gains first. We agreed and began our down time. Funnily, as I practiced my new art one of the Warvine took an interest and wondered if I was dancing. I did my best to inform it that I was practicing fighting and it's eyes lit up and began to emulate my movements. This made me blush but I did my best to focus and show it all that I knew.

The night progressed and I was awoken by Gundar he said that he had heard the howl of wolves but before he could say any more Kit came from the woods and told us that Skipper was not to be trusted and that he had killed his Horse. She said the howls where from stray wolves that feasted on the horse and became evil creatures after the fact. I knew that Skipper was going down a dark path now but I didn't think I would have to put him down this soon. I knew that there had to be a reason for him to do something like that. You don't just up and kill something that was your ally for NO reason…. Right? Skipper returned and Ahmri put him to sleep with a spell. And then we bound him to a tree.

When Skipper woke up he elaborated that he had done this for the good of the party. Brysgella was spying on us, this we knew, and he said in doing this act she would no longer be able to see our movements. He offered his horse as a sacrifice to Varghast so that we could move undetected. This conversation left a bad taste in everyone's mouth. Gundar and Kit both stayed silent with their eyes closed for a long time and Ahmri was not above showing his distaste. But I kind of agree with Skipper on this one. I do not like what he did but in nature you need to do some bad things in order to survive. If a snake bites you and you can't bleed the poison you cut off your leg, or wherever the snake bites you. Sometimes in order to survive you have to make that sacrifice. And this gives us some advantage at least over a great foe that is interested in us…. I just hope that we are not letting a snake bite us and saying it's for the best….. Please, stay strong, Skipper.

The path was clear enough thankfully. The Warvine showed us the way and took us to where they could and left us on our way. The Mine was close now. The Warvine said that Kobolds where dwelling in the mine now. They shouldn't be too much trouble, but you should never underestimate something that can think. Especially when they have shown adaptability in the past. Before I could think anymore on the matter Gundar rushed forward to meet an unseen foe. Before I could ready myself two large Mantis launched out of the trees. One meeting Gundar's challenge and the other landing near me. It's blow missed and Ahmri put it to sleep. I waited for Skipper to get behind the foe before unleashing a Flurry of my own blows against it. This one went down with little trouble but the Other still stood. I knew it wouldn't stand for much longer but help is always welcome. Gundar had done a great deal of damage as did Floofy Pupper and Kit. I rushed forward to give aid but instead the Mantis left me with a great wound. Blinded by the pain I was unable to see who landed the last blow on the creature but my senses came to me just in time to hear a howl coming from the mine….

After several days of travel, we came upon a woman lying in the grass unconscious. Kah approached her and she awoke fairly confused. I then approached her and found out her name was Kit and she was unsure how long she was here, and where she was from. Because of this, I offered her to join our group so that she could be safer and potentially regain her memories.

After a short while, we heard a loud cry of some large cat and the moan of a humanoid creature. Kit sneakily approached the large cat while the rest of the group approached the moaning humanoid. Kah approached the downed Halfling and began offering aid after trying to show his meaning. Dimfoodle approached the Halfling and was able to slowly translate what we were doing so I approached and healed him before moving towards the dire tiger. Kit ended up attacking it with her bronze spear, sparking with blue-white fire. In retaliation, the dire tiger swiped at her several times and bit into her dropping her unconscious. The Halfling wolf-warrior stabbed at the beast, dealing a mighty blow. I quickly charged the beast and downed it with a mighty swing of my flaming club.

After healing Kit, we spoke with the Halflings and they offered to have us join them for the night and for dinner. We agreed and we were able to find out from them there was a path up the mountain via some dwarven ruins. Kit spoke in fluent Warrows to the Halflings and asked about the other path they were hiding which was to their homeland so we stopped asking about that path.

Later that evening I awoke well before my shift of watch to the sound of bloodcurdling howls of some wolf-like creature. I quickly realized that this must be something that Skipper was involved in. I awoke the rest of the group and told them of my fears. Kit approached from the direction of the howls and told me of what she saw. Apparently, Skipper had killed his horse and a group of mangy looking wolves had eaten of the flesh and grew into monstrous beings with an evil aura and intelligent eyes. When Skipper approached Ahmri immediately put him to sleep and we tied him up.

After a short while, we conversed and tried to decide his fate. I prayed to Akela but could not gain his attention, almost as if he was busy dealing with this new evil Skipper had unleashed. I learned that Kit was another follower of Akela, and we joined together to try and reach him to ask his opinion of Skipper's actions. We still could not reach him but I felt him acknowledge me and say it was my decision. We awoke Skipper and learned of what he had done, and the reasoning behind it. We also learned of Skipper and Kah's plan to kill Skipper if he did ever go too far. With that in mind, we released him of his bonds and resolved to keep a closer eye on him.

The next day was spent recovering from the battle and the night's events, as well as waiting for the Halflings to finish curing the meat of the wolves and the dire tiger. Sometime around midday, I approached the Halflings and asked for some of the bones of the wolves and constructed a small shrine to Akela and I began to meditate in hopes of speaking with him. After a long while, I fell into a trance and felt myself appear before the great white wolf, Akela, himself. I spoke with him for some time and asked what I should do about Skipper. He told me he could not directly approach him because he had already chosen to follow Varghast instead of him. I asked if there was something I could do to try and counterbalance the appearance and creation of these new creatures, the wargs. He said there was, and to take some time before giving me the instructions for a ritual to do in his name when a decision was made. When I awoke I pulled the pack together and told them what I had learned, and spoke to Kit, Ahmri, and Ingrodi directly to ask their assistance in the ritual whenever the time came. They agreed after I told them the purpose of the ritual, and we rested for the night.

The next day we began the journey to the mountain taking most of the day to reach the base of the path that would lead us to the dwarven ruins. We rested there for an uneventful night before beginning the trek up the mountain path the following morning. We were wary of the ruins because we had heard of the Dogpeople that inhabited it. As we approached I sensed something hiding in the trees. It was two giant mantises and the jumped down from the trees. I approached one of them and was struck, taking only a glancing blow, before dealing a slight one in return. Dimfoodle put the other mantis to sleep and the rest of the group made short work of it. Kah approached the mantis in front of me and missed because the mantis had struck out at him dealing several blows before grabbing him and pulling him close. Between Ahmri, Ingrodi, and Floofy-Pupper, they managed to kill the beast. We managed to take a quick breather before hearing load barking coming from the ruins and we knew that the fight was only just beginning.

We were teleported to the edge of The Green and had been traveling for several days. On the morning of the 3rd(not sure) day we happened upon some elves that wanted us to give Ellisar to them, he is now one of my pack, so we refused, after a small time of back and forth I charged toward the Elven Archer, but on the way there I managed to fall into a pit of mud. From my vantage point, I could now see several other elves in the trees. The next thing I know I'm waking up after some spell of sleep affected me, I look around and notice others, with Floofie Pupper having just bitten me awake.

I hear Ahmri saying we will retreat, I agree but say that I want to try the ring of rage on them before we leave. I take a few more hits from arrows before I am able to utilize the ring of rage. I only end up affecting 1 of my targets, it seems that elves are rather strong against mind-affecting abilities. One of my companions casts Obscuring Mist to hide our exit, and I am able to get out of the area to meet up with the rest of the pack. While we are heading away I hastily drink a potion to heal myself, noting the uniqueness of the act. As we leave I wonder if, and when the elves will catch up with us.

We have faced off against a great force today, and chose the noble path of non-violence. It was due to Ahmri's guidance that we chose as such and although the thought did not cross my own mind I am glad of it's choice. I feel like my own blood lust has been growing stronger as has my connection with <s>bad wolf </s>Varghest. I am still in control, I am. I have entrusted Kah with a duty should this not continue to be the case. Though I don't know if he is strong enough to stop me…I don't know if even I am. The people I once treasured and could not stop feeling anger over seem so distant now, the thought of revenge seemingly fueling itself. Anyone who stands in my way seems like an obstacle that i can not forgive; but I must not lose myself.

We made our way out of the Green after some rest. Skipper pulled me aside on one of the rests and entrusted me with something very important. I worry about him but I also believe in him. Later on in the day we where stopped by, seemingly, two elves asking…. Demanding we hand over Ellisar. We tried to delay them but they where having none of it and opened fire. As it turned out there where other Elves hiding in the trees and I cursed myself for not putting that together. I am still not too used to large group tactics but that's what I would have done. Gundar let out a charge and fell into a mud pit Ahmri noted was probably set up by the elves themselves. This would be a place at which they had the advantage so Ahmri advised us to take flight rather than stand fast in this encounter. After a bit of misfortune Gundar said he would target the elves with the ring. I stepped out of the range of the rings spell and out of most of firing range and tried to support the remaining parties escape as best I could.

In the end we escaped with Gundar taking the brunt of the damage. But we are not safe as of yet. The Elves are still close by and I don't think they would abandon their hunt so easily. However, we did at least give them enough to be worried or hesitant about a second encounter. Only time will tell what they chose to do. As for me, as we took flight, I felt the strange powers inside of me grow, at least ever so slightly. I need to meditate and practice more as soon as I can.

After our encounter with the skeletons, we moved to somewhere defensible in order to rest and recuperate. The next morning we decided to backtrack and try a different path. Ahmri was sensing a vague aura of illusion magics coming from the path we previously ignored. So we began to walk down that path when we encountered a funny little man in a tree, that bore gemstones. He said we could take as many as we like, but before we could walk closer a dragon appeared behind us. Kah and I quickly turned to face it. I dealt it a glancing blow, and then it reared its ugly head and shot fire at myself and Kah. I went to attack it once more and was able to realize it was an illusion. I turned back to face the small man and found that Skipper was attacking Ellisar. Not knowing what this could be I went to the aid of my friend and began to hit him over the head until he stopped attacking Ellisar. We then confronted the small man, by then he had revealed that he was, in fact, a gnome, and asked him why he attacked us. After we awakened Skip, He and I began to interrogate him. He told us his name was Dimfoodle, and that he was alone with very little belongings within the green. He told us of the tragedy that had befallen his clan around a pot of stew. He was then able to tell us some information about the taint that we sought. We then told him of our plight, and I asked him if he would care to join or pack. He was taken aback at this and said he would need time to think about it. He gave us his ring of rage, and we began to come up with a plan, that just might work. After a short while, we went back to the point where we were ambushed before and began to dig a pit trap, with spikes on the bottom, to lay in wait for the Ogres. By some unknown force, the first ogre was able to notice our pit trap, I immediately tried to use the ring of rage, when it hit me. It was a once daily use! And it had already been used, against us! Our original plan now thrown out of the window, I went up to the first ogre and began to attack it. We may not have gotten them to fall into the pit but we did manage to choke the choke point. The battle lasted a short while, with the ogre I was facing losing his weapon and nearly stealing mine. Just before the battle ended, I managed to be grabbed by the second ogre and thrown into the pit, luckily taking no damage. I then tried to climb out and slipped while halfway up, greatly damaging my pride. After defeating both ogres, and getting helped out of the pit we decided to go forward to face the greater enemy. As we approached the taint, we heard a deep chuckling sound coming from a very large figure. Bigger than the ogres. Myself and Kah immediately charged the beast and began attacking it. Shortly after the battle begins Dimfoodle joins our side and attacks the troll with magic. After a few back and forth attacks we began to notice that the troll was regenerating. The fight was going badly for us, and we began our retreat. We had several unconscious or injured companions and were trying to find a way to save them. While Ahmri was trying to retreat he remembered the pool, and that we must cleanse it. I toss him the bag and he begins to cleanse the pool. Then Trinian absorbs magic directly from the ley line, healing our injuries, and dealing damage to the troll before falling unconscious. Ahmri pulls magic from the ley line trying to light my club on fire so that I can do more damage to the troll, but in doing so he pulls more then he thought, making my club a weapon of fire, because of this he has a terrible headache. I finally hit the troll with a mighty blow knocking him out and his body burning to ash. We tend to our wounded, and we bathe in the pool as instructed by the fae women. Upon bathing in the pool we feel more powerful, and I feel my connection with Akela grow. Dimfoodle agrees to join us, and we gladly accept him. Our pack is then are transported to the far side of the green, to make up for our lost time dealing with this threat. Who knows what could be in store for us next.

We entered further into the green and found a strange tree with gems as fruit and gold for leaves. On this tree sat a small creature that asked us if we wanted it's gems. Ahmri cast doubt to it's intentions and was quite right to as he cast a spell to make a Dragon ascend behind us. Or so we thought. The Dragon was only an illusion as we found out. Though, a true danger was when he cast a spell on Skipper to make him target allies. (I forgot who) put the Gnome to sleep and we calmed Skipper down by taking the Gnomes ring.

When he woke up we questioned the gnome about why he tried to trick us and other things. As it turns out, he too is an outcast of his clan and targeted us because he was hungry. No foul their. I kill things when hungry. We made some food and he told us things about Magic and a bit about his home world and the Gnomes. Ahmri, being ever good with his words, said that we would help him find his kin and be a good example of what humanity has to offer. In addition, the Gnome gave us a clue to the taint in the green: Two Ogres guard the taint but usually go out and hunt near dusk.

With that information we went to where we thought the Ogres where likely to make their way and dug a pit with spikes at the bottom to trap them and hopefully weaken them. Ahmri also noted the Ring the Gnome had could make the Ogres target each other as well to take some of the heat off of us. We disguised the trap then took to hiding and waiting.

Unfortunately, when the Ogres arrived they noticed the trap almost right out. Gundar stepped forth and used the rings power but to no avail. Instead of screaming in rage at each other, they screamed with delight at the sight of a fight. The battle was hard fought but in the end we claimed the victory thanks to the quick thinking and skills of my kin.

Further into the green nearing where the taint palpably dwelled. we approached with caution and it spoke in Giant at what it thought was his Ogre companions. My stomach dropped as I saw what had been the cause of all the badness in the Green: A troll. Memories of the one I encountered what seems so long ago came rushing back. I would not be saved this time. I would have to fight this fight. Thankfully, magic seemed to be stronger in this area. As we fought the Troll the casters seemed to do remarkable magics that they could not before. Especially sweet Trinian. She caused massive amounts of damage to the Troll and healed the part. But it did not seem to be enough. Eventually our wounds grew grievous and fear instilled us once more but after a massive healing spell from Trinian she told us to "Kill this thing" before she fell.

Then I lit myself on fire. Accidentally. With Magic. As Skipper and Gundar struck mighty blows to the Troll I wondered if I too could tap into the magical energy that was in this place. I concentrated on what I saw that man do. But instead of isolating the energy on my feet or hands my body was set aflame. But I did use that to my advantage! It may not have been as elegant but was effective none the less.

The day won to us once more. But I worry for Trinian. She is gaining so much power that is beyond her control. While I know that she can learn to control it I fear that she may not learn in time over the rate at which she gains her power. Please stay safe, my love. I will learn how to protect you. I will delve into magic myself if only to help you. That night, for the first time ever. Having watched Klaria and Tanguma all those nights before, I meditated on the ways of fighting and on the magic that I now feel within me.

Yo, there is this lady and she is ALL about Ahmri! She came up to us as we where making our way to more elven places and started flirting with Ahmri something fierce and saying that he lives for her or something? I was only half paying attention to them. Win for me though, I got muh face painted.

We agreed to check out what has been causing trouble in the green but only investigation wise. Aaaaaand it's already going super great! I got poisoned and I have been ineffective in combat! Nice!

I did do a fair bit of damage to the spider that bit me but after that we came across undead and I couldn't hit them for the life of me. Not for lack of trying, mind you. I am trying to fight like I saw that man fight. He was super cool with his moves. I have some ideas on how to do what I need to but it's getting my body to do what I want it to. Yo, does this poison make you less intelligent? I am feeling strange.

As we traveled more to the east Ahmri began to notice we were dangerously close to The Green, if not already within it. After he mentioned this to us and he was speaking with Ellisar a fae woman appeared to us and said she knew Ahmri. She began to talk of Ahmri's newfound devotion to The Green and that the power he was receiving from it made him its Guardian. Apparently, I and Skipper were not the only ones that had made a deal. She spoke of something within The Green, causing rot to spread and I felt a vague cloud of badness surrounding the area. Ahmri told the girl that we would investigate before deciding to do anything further and that we would need time to prepare. Ahmri decided to paint all of our group to embody predatory animals, Skipper and I took on the visage of wolves, myself white and he black. Ingrodi an Eagle, and Kah a tiger. Ahmri made himself appear as a fox. We then ventured into The Green proper. As we were exploring I was continuing to feel a stronger presence of rot within the area. We soon came upon a group of giant spiders. We immediately began to attack them. I could not sense evil within them so I did not use my new power. After defeating them we continued on into the forest. We were soon attacked by a group of skeletons clad in the armor and colors of Riverrun. This concerned me greatly for it seems that Brisgella was a greater threat then we originally thought. We were not free of her yet, and she has not forgotten us. It seems we will have to face her eventually. Hopefully, we are much stronger at that point. After facing the skeletons we decided to continue onward. Searching for this rotting presence within The Green.

As I fought the ooze, having had a night to sleep on the decision presented to me I made my choice. I chose the power of reckless abandon. Now that I have made up my mind things flood to me. My options become clearer and my rituals more obvious. I bleed our enemies at the end of every battle and invoke bad wolf's name often. I try to focus more on the positive side of him, of how to use him to my own ends. My methods work…for now. As we are called to fight the taint in the forest I can see that there is still some good I can do using this evil. Even as I grow stronger, and as we move further from home, my mind only drifts back to vengeance; I must control myself always….always.

After our fight with the ooze, we were able to rest for a short while. After resting we slowly made our way to the vault Ellisar told us about. I was taking the lead and rounded a corner after being told to be careful because something lurked within the next room. I went into the room and saw an open doorway, where inside several elvish skeletons where shambling around. I quickly made my way back to the party and told them what to prepare for. I was knocked down by the first two to come upon our bottleneck and I was vaguely aware of being moved out of the way. It seems the fight went well and I was stabilized and regained some health. We then approached the door of the vault and between Skipper and Ellisar they managed to make some sort of key to turn the "tumblers" of the lock. Once we entered the vault there were many bronze blades, Ellisar called them shortswords, as well as a large wooden crate with bronze bands wrapped around them. We were able to retrieve some bronze arrowheads as well. After some time with the chest Skipper asked me to break the lock. I picked up a shortsword and with a great thrust, I shattered the clasp. Within this "chest" We found several potions, two of which healed and were given to myself and Kah as well as a potion to give me the strength of a bull. We spent the rest of the day and the next tending to our wounds as well as exploring our newfound abilities. I pledged myself to Akela and to my pack. I learned of the extent of Skipper's pledge to bad wolf and though I was uncomfortable with the evil that he had sided with I knew that if I were to dissuade him or turn against him it would only make the hold stronger. He is my friend and my family, and as part of my pack, I will be there to prevent him from descending too deep. Ellisar then told us of his plan to find more vaults to further his knowledge and he asked us to join him. We all agreed, with the exception of Klaria and Ohanzee who traveled north to Highrock in order to try and get the aid of the chief and shaman of the village. With our plans decided we began to take the journey east and quickly entered the Green. We were nearing a clearing when Kah said to stop and I felt a presence I had never felt before, though it was something far eviler then I could have ever believed. The.. creature spoke to us into our minds and told us of its mission that was given by Brysgella herself. It slashed at Kah and dealt him a grievous blow. Skip managed to get behind the creature and land a hit, doing no perceivable damage. I then went up to the monster and smashed down with my club while summoning up my new power from Akela to smite this creature. I dealt it a mighty blow and I knew I had gathered its undivided attention. Ahmri, Trinian, Ingrodi, and Ellisar all attempted to damage it but to no avail. I was soon strengthened by the voice of Ahmri as well as from something mumbled by Skipper. I was able to deal the creature a devastating blow shouting " Die you foul beast!", I thought the beast dead but it had narrowly survived my attack. Trinian whispered something to Kah and he seemed to gain new strength, for when he went to attack the creature he succeeded where previously he had failed. Ahmri ended up healing my wounds, a new spell of his from the Green no doubt. After the battle, we then decided to head towards the nearest settlement so that we could prepare for the long journey ahead.

That night as the others slept on my turn to keep watch I thought I had been doing a good job of everything when suddenly I felt something strange. Like a puddle of water. I looked down and saw indeed that but it was climbing up the side of the wall.

"Look out!" the Elf had said but it was too late.

This strange creature used it body as a weapon and nearly took me out. The initial impact was painful and I realized that it's form was slightly acidic. I backed off and started firing arrows at the creature while Gundar and Skipper moved in.

The battle was not long but instilled me with fear. The creature hardly seemed affected by the volley of arrows from Ahmri, Ingrodi, and myself. Gundar had fallen and Skipper seemed to be on his last ropes. Our only hope seemed to be the magical members. Trinian and the Elf stood fast and flung spells at the foe and seemed to be the only ones dealing damage. After another volley Skipper let out the howl of a wolf and began to fight with a fury I had not seen of him and Gundars wounds started to heal.

In the end it was sweet Trinian that landed the killing blow to save our hides.

So, our friends Skipper and Gundar have made a deal with the spirits of the world, eh? But they seem to be on different sides? The Black Wolf and The White Wolf…. The Elf then talked of God's and worship and my mind wandered back to the man and woman that called me son and the strange raw power they seemed to live.

We rested a bit more and continued deeper into the dungeon The Elf… Ellisar guiding our steps. It was not long before we encountered a small hoard of skeletal foes which we dispatched with relative ease. Gundar had fallen once more and I was gravely injured but we prevailed and found the Vault not long after. We found some things of use but more over most the Elf seemed to gain the most reward. He told us of other Vaults and he asked us to join him in finding those.

We returned to the surface and started making our way East. I heard the Snap of a twig and halted the party as a…. A Monster….. What is this? It speaks in my mind of Brysgella. It advances on me and claws me. I just make it to where the fiend doesn't gut me but the wound hurts beyond what I have known before. I try to fight back but I don't leave any marks on where I hit. Gundar and Skipper advance on the creature to aid me. Skipper doing strange new things with his touch and a power from Gundar I had felt before from my Mother and Father. Gundar lifted his club and dealt a sound blow and now had the creatures undivided attention.

I did what I could but that was not much. Gundar going blow for blow with the beast and Skipper dealing out damage where he could. Then I hear Trinian whisper in my ear

"I know you can do this!"

Giving me just enough of the strength I need to land the final blow on the foul beast.

I look around proud of my friends when I notice another and my stomach flips in place but vanishes soon after I see it. It seems that we have not heard the last of that foul Witch.

Father…. How did you get so strong? How do you fight? How can I be as strong as you?

After we fought and killed the gnolls we had went to the next room, with our new friend Ellisar in tow. We set watches and settled down for the night. Skipper had first watch, I myself had the second. I went to go settle down to sleep when Kah took over for third. I was awoken by a shout of alarm from Ellisar and a cry of pain from Kah. I sprang up, causing Skipper to fall over, and ran towards Kah. When I got there I saw a gray oozing creature that had attacked him. I watched as an arrow pierced its skin with a squishing sound and started to dissolve. I immediately took note of this so that I wouldn't lose my only weapon. I climbed up and got hit by the creature, nearly dropping. Knowing that I did not have much left I swung mightily at the creature before falling unconscious. While I was out a vision came to me of Akela saying "I can't have my potential champion dying now can I?" And I awoke with a start, having been healed by some strange magic. I heard Skipper let out a wolf howl and shoot at the creature saying "For bad wolf!" At this point, I realized that Skipper had chosen a path that was different from my own, and that I needed to keep him in check. Trinian, our former chiefs' daughter, managed to take down the creature with a blast of lightning from her hands. Her magical prowess slowly growing. I called a prayer to Akela to heal my friends and allies, and that I would take up the mantle he had asked of me. Ahmri became confused about what had happened so I told him of the vision I had had. Ellisar said it is similar to what his priests did and they were called "Druids." Ahmri was very interested in this and would try to learn more when he could. After the battle, we slowly began the trek forward towards the vault, and whatever may lay therein.

We steeled ourselves for what may come next. The Gnoll we captured said there was an elf deep below but was guarded by his hungry brothers. A fight is sure to be had, though hopefully we are able to sneak past…. Nope…

As we made our way to the location the Gnoll told us about the others spotted us and from that moment on we fought. We fought our way to the door and to the way down. As we reached the depths we fought them in their home. We where playing into their hands. Though, the word smith with his brilliance had an idea when nearing where the elf was being held. "Trap the trappers." He summoned a very fine pony and sent it into the dwelling where it took a fair few hits for us and vanished. With sound blows from my companions and the sweet Lady Trinian we dispatched the creatures and found the Elf.

He speaks of a "vault" a place in which to stor valuables. He says that if we help him to the vault we are free to take the loot save for the "Scrolls". He wishes them for himself so he may learn more about himself and his ancestors I think? I understand that… But maybe not as much as Trinian as she stepped forward and talked with the elf of the magics she has and how they where "Born" with it… I hope she can find herself in this elfs words or even teachings.

We had Klaria stay with the gear as well as Skipper's horse. We went to start the journey down to where the elf was and immediately ran into opposition. I was the first in and struck down a gnoll. Ohanzee quickly followed and attacked and killed several as well. We fought through a few before realizing we were in the wrong building. I went over and checked another building and found a bag full of obsidian arrowheads and some carved bits of bone. I rejoined the fight in front of the right building and managed to take out a few before Ahmri knocked out a few using magic. I ran down the stairs and encountered several hungry gnolls and was able to kill one of them as the rest of the party came down the stairs. Trinian used some sort of magic to damage several of them. We kept following several gnolls killing them as we went before stopping before a room full of hungry gnolls, as well as warriors, and what we assumed was the rageborn. Ahmri came up with a plan to defeat their trap and summoned a pony that was shining with a strange light. The poor pony walked into the room, taking several hits and killing one of the hungry gnolls with an attack before succumbing to the shower of Javelins and blows. I went into the room and killed a warrior before having the rageborn approach me dealing a mighty blow with his large bronze greataxe. After a few minutes, we all came together to kill the rageborn, doing most of the damage myself, and we made short work of the other gnolls. We then heard a sound of knocking coming from a room down the stairs and after Skipper checked it for traps I removed the log blocking the way and out came an elf man speaking in slow Seonese. He told us his name and told us he would help us find the "Vault" of his people and that we could have whatever we wanted from it other than the "scrolls" of his people. We moved back to a previous room and prepared to settle down for the night and recoup our lost strength before we continued on.

Finally! Ingrodi came with our gear on Skippers horse! I am not sure if I can trust her having been so close to the Witch, but then again the mentor doesn't make the person. And, I guess the same can be said about parents but i am not sure if that's true with my own past. I don't have much to go on there. So we have a few options now but our closest seeming target is the strange ruins that Ahmri noticed when we got here. It's a good a lead as any.

We head over and find a few hungry Gnoll's in the area. They shouldn't be much trouble but never underestimate an animal that is hungry. Especially if they have attacked human strongholds before in their hunger. Ahmri, decided that he would lure some of the Gnoll's on guard by seducing them as a female of their species….. Nice?

Our first target was felled by a sound blow from Skipper. The others had a problem with that but I was far too impressed to be bothered. And besides, as Ohanzee would say "Good riddance!" But that could be bad rubbish of me to say.

We had a lot more success with the second Gnoll, though I failed my attempt to subdue the beast, the rest of the party came upon him swiftly and had him dispatched. The Gnoll says that there is a Elf deep below these ruins and is guarded by a "War Born" White hair, human eater… I think I know where we will be going next…

After we were teleported to the woods we spent a few days gathering up what we could for food and moving to shelter while we waited for Ingrodi. During this time I went to a tree and found one of it's larger branches and broke it off. I slowly was able to fashion it into a large club. When Ingrodi arrived with Skipper's horse and the rest of our belongings I was able to finish the club with some more detail as well as a grip out of some rope. We slept one more night and then we decided to go investigate the ruins to the north of us. Myself, Trinian, Ahmri, Ingrodi, Skipper, and Kah went towards the ruins. Trinian and I stayed back while the others approached more cautiously. Skipper found a Gnoll nearby so we all decided to wait in ambush for it to come towards us. Ahmri ended up using magic to disguise himself as a female gnoll. When the gnoll approached us Skipper leaped into action and ended up cutting the gnoll down. We then had to try and find another gnoll in order to question. Ahmri went further ahead and found another gnoll to lead back to a new ambush site. I thought disaster had struck when the gnoll noticed Kah so I immediately whacked the gnoll over the head with my new club. It promptly fell unconscious. I then picked up the gnoll and we headed back into the forest. We began to discuss what we were going to do. After I while I interjected and asked Kah and Skipper to ask the gnoll a few questions. We learned of an Elf being held prisoner and we learned of the possible number of gnolls we may encounter. After our group decided to rescue the Elf I gave the gnoll a day's worth of trail rations and instructed Kah and Skipper to tell the gnoll to leave or else I would kill him. The gnoll quickly got up and scampered away. As we watched the gnoll leave we returned to our camp to talk with Ohanzee and Klaria in order to tell them of the plan.

The cell was that of wood and rope. Skipper was not with us in the cell so that brings hope. The question is what can we do in this time. No weapons, guarded at all times, a huge witch watching our movements. I don't see options but I do sense desperation. In me. Deeply ingrained like roots. Roots of rot and decay. The feeling is unpleasant but rot yet yields life in a different form. We have time but still not enough. My brain is buzzing with thoughts outrageous and fancy. Spirits, I recall the ones who called me son. I don't need these thoughts now, I need to focus but I can't keep my head right. Between Trinian so close and what is to be our doom drawing closer… No! Any chance, any opening must be taken. Regardless of risk. If I face death I will do it on my terms. I will not be their martyr, I will not be their example!

As night fell hope had dawned. A guard noticed a light in Tanguma's hut. A fire had started! This would be our key. We advanced to threaten the guards and free up the word smith who had been bound earlier. We failed this several times but we persisted until finally he was free. He spoke his rhymes and made an opening large enough for us to crawl through. Hope! We made our way to flee as fast as we could with so little and opening. One by one, Ahmir, Klaria, Ohanzee. Brysgella cast one of her charms and put them to sleep and the guards advanced to the hole. Oblivion! I throw myself at the opening in spit of the impending doom. The guards spear misses and snaps as it hit the ground. Hope. I make to grapple my foe but he doges my advance and then suddenly….

The world is not the same as it was? I look around me and see my friends safe, save for Skipper. He lie broken and bleeding. I begin to rush to his side and I hear the crow perched atop his head speak

After our planning we split up, myself with Ahmri, while Skipper, Klaria, and Ohanzee went to go investigate Tanguma's hut. Ahmri instructed me to keep a close eye on the chieftain meeting so I went to the communal fire outside of the hut. There I saw Kah, a fairly new face to me, having only ever seen him from afar. He presented Trinian with some gift and walked away. After a while Ahmri had walked up to the fire, he was disguised differently, but I could tell it was him. Trinian, on the other hand, did not see past it. Ahmri loudly announced that he was visiting from Lake and wanted a cup of mead, in keeping with the hospitality of one who lives in Riverrun. He motioned towards the chieftain meeting hut and I went and talked to the guard there about procuring some mead from inside the hut. I went in fairly quietly when I overheard Kholar and the other chieftains/shamans discussing the gnoll problem. At this point, I noticed that they were rather intoxicated and, sensing a chance to potentially earn some respect for my clan I spoke up about me, and my friend's, encounter with six of the beasts. One of the chiefs said if I will share stories with them then I should share in the circle, and in their mead. I sat near one of the chieftains and began telling my story, after having drunk down a cup of mead. Curiously they seemed to take my tale well, and I ended up drinking more and more of that fantastic mead. After what seemed like ages I heard something faintly outside of the hut when Ahmri, Klaria, Skipper, and the small one, Kah came in trailing Brysgella and her daughter Ingrodi. Before I could register what was happening I was asleep. I awoke to a scene that confused me to no end. Some of the other chieftains were attacking my friends, and Korran was attacking Kohlar! I quickly went to join the fray. I had nearly taken care of Valduf when something hit me from behind and I fell unconscious. When I awoke I had a headache and I was in a recently constructed cage with my friends, as well as Trinian. The only one who was missing was Skipper. I was worried and then I heard that we had been apprehended after killing several of the chieftains, as well as Kohlar, and that we would be executed on the full moon. I didn't believe it at first but grew resigned to it and wondered what our group could do. We had failed to protect our Chieftan and the village believedus traitors.

The event's out on my hunt left my mind in a twist. I had no idea what to believe anymore. Then again I am not sure what to believe in the first place, other than the rare and radiant Lady Trinian. I pushed these trivial matters from my mind as I made it back to the village and set to work on the stunning Star Sapphire. I worked tirelessly on the piece and when I was done was very happy and impressed, albeit surprised, at my work. This day must be blessed.

She liked it! Oh spirits! I am not sure what to do with myself. If only I could have said something to her. Though, she deserves beautiful words that I am not sure I could give her.

Finally, I find Ohanzee. He stood grouped with Klaria and a few others I had seen around the village, though not totally familiar with. The word smith, the strong man, and the knife master. Completely capable companions if memory tell's no lies. It was here they spoke of strange things; Tanguma seems to have some sort of plot to kill the chief? The information unclear and based on speculation. But I do trust in Ohanzee and if he says that this Brysgella is up to no good then we should put her down. We set out to investigate.

I awoke several hours later in a daze lying next to Lady Trinian. Not in the manner that I had hopped. A caged bird. I curse her brother as I make sure that she is alright. She nods that she is but I am not blessed enough to hear her sweet voice. I close my eyes and picture my new enemy, That woman, Tanguma, Korran. Korran! The thought of him fills me with a rage I have never felt before. How could he have taking arms against his father? The nerve! Does he not understand how precious family is! Brother, Sister…. Mother… Father… I think back to that man in the wilds… Potential… That's what he said… Wasn't it?…… My son… She said that too… Son… Who am I?

A necklace! That's what the proverbial Shaman ordered! I headed out into the wilderness. While it is true I could just take part in the hunt, but that is more for the village as a whole. And it is also true I could fashion a necklace on the hunt, but in skipping out I can focus on my work. This is far more important than to play waiting cauldron to something I do almost daily. If the chief wants food from me I will skin him a rabbit and apologize later….. Or I can skin him a rabbit then try not to make eye contact as I give it to him…. That sounds better.

Though, I do hope that Klaria and Ohanzee are alright. I know them capable and a hunt is nothing new, but I worry about them.

I search for a few hours trying to find ideas for the necklace. I find some materials for the string rather quickly but what should be the amulet? A pretty stone is good but to find one with enough sentiment would take more than the time allotted. Unless luck was with me. I wont rule that out but there are better things I could do instead of hope….

The trip back from the hunt was going well. Our first morning, after Ahmri had sung the sun up, we found out someone had joined our camp within the night. We found out his name was Akela and was one of the great spirits, a sometime companion of Raven. He told us that he was the one that had put him in the cave to humble him. A few of us traded our Raven feathers for Wolf tokens from Akela. We made our way back to the village that day when we ran into a group of staving gnolls. I had heard tales of the beasts that roamed the north and that had attacked Highrock. I had never thought to see them this close to the village. A few of them attacked me, and I blocked the first attack and snapped his spear. The second hit me and barely scratched me. Ahmri put two of the gnolls to sleep and Ohanzee killed several. The one who attacked me fell unconscious after Klaria attacked it with something. I attacked it and crushed it's skull, killing it where it lay. After scavenging a few items from the gnolls to use as trinkets we finished our trek to the Riverrun. Upon reach Riverrun we learned that none of the other hunting parties had returned. We gave our 71 portions of meat to the cook tents to be prepared for the party. I went to speak with my father, not wanting things to be further strained between him and I. After telling him my story he said it was wrong for him to speak to me the way he had and that I would bring much honor to our family and to our clan. I spent most of the day helping out with cutting and preparing the meat, as well as gathering firewood and helping move around various items to set up for the coming festivities. Near the end of the day I learned that my uncles had returned and they congratulated me and my party on our hunt, and said the next clan hunt, they would be sure to include me. I finished out the night swapping stories with the other warriors from other clans and villages before heading back to my family's hut. On my way there I encountered (party members and talk about the information we learned as well as what we were going to do about it.)

Gundar

Gundar was unhappy with not being chosen by the Longstorm to hunt for the village chief's daughter's 16th year. Because of this he went to his friend Skipper to gather a group of friends to earn glory for his clan and for his family. Gundar went to ask his father's advice for where to hunt, but his father was unhappy with him and said he would bring shame to the family, and the clan. Gundar left anyway with his group of friends. After two days of travel they came upon a massive Stag and they began to hunt it. Gundar went to hit the stag and was slashed with antlers bigger then he himself was. After taking a grievous wound the Stag took off. His friends followed after it while he slowly caught up. The Stag had wandered into a cave were Klaria and Ahmuri heard a strange voice cry out "Help!" We found the stag dead from bleeding out and a strange Raven spirit caught in some tree roots. The Raven told us of two "shinies" in the cave, and if we gave him one he could escape and we could keep the other for ourselves. Ahmuri agreed to help him and I began to field dress the dear with the help of Skipper and Ohanzee. While the pelt was being dried out a treestump creature attacked Klaria and Skipper. Meanwhile Ahmuri was caught by the same roots holding the Raven. Gundar's best friend Skipper fell to the tree creature and in a rage he charged the creature and pummeled it. After this he and Ohanzee found the "shinies" that the Raven mentinoned. Gundar gave one to the Raven and he freed himself and Ahmuri. After this they left the cave and settled down for the night with their bounty of over 180 pounds of stag meat, and the antlers of the mighty stag.

Ohanzee

Day 1- We set out today on our journey for the Great Hunt. Upon my advice we are setting out farther than I have traveled away from the village. I was quite surprised they asked me to join in the first place, seeing as who makes up the members of our group. Though its more than likely due to Ahmri…hes a weird one, but he doesn't treat me with the same disdain that the rest of the village does. It is rather refreshing actually. My adopted parents were the last ones to show me any interest.

The day went rather smoothly. We quickened our pace to reach our target area so that we could make it back to the Village within the 5 day time limit. Klaria seemed to be exhausted after the days march; can tell she is not use to this type of outing. Wish I could make it easier on her.

Day 2- We woke up with no incidents in the night. After checking the stars before the sunrise we determined that todays march could be a more relaxed pace, making it easier on everyone. After I packed my gear I heard Ahmri start singing. He has a beautiful voice. As he sang the sun began to rise…I don't know if I can believe that he is the cause of it, but as he was questioned by the rest of the group he told us there has always been a Daysinger singing the sun back to us each morning.

Half the day went by when we came upon a majestic buck. Larger than I have ever seen before. We quickly made plans to take the beast. Using magic we tricked the beast into the opening where the group was able to converge on him. it was great seeing the group in combat, and we seemed to work together rather well. Klaria used some magic that made the beasts shadow grab the bucks leg and keep it in place making it easier to surround it…something about that shadow felt comfortable…

In the rush of our group surrounding the beast I almost broke my long spear, making me cringe a little bit. The buck took off into the forest and all of us seemed to be surprised and missed the beast as it ran by. In one last attempt I ran after it and hurled one of my javelins and was relieved to see it sink into the bucks flank severely hampering him. I was able to easily follow the blood trail to a small cave entrance.

In the cave we found the body of the buck but we also found a talking Raven that seemed to be stuck by some moving tree roots. As the magic users tried to figure out a way to rescue the talking Raven (which was named a Great Spirit by Ahmri) the others and I field dressed the buck and packed it up on Skippers' horse.

Once Ahmri and Klaria said they were ready to free the Raven, we all headed back into the cave. Klaria made her way further back into the cave only to be attacked by a moving tree stump! In its surprise attack it severely injured her and the rest of sprang into action to save her. Skipper charged forward to try to put himself in between Klaria and the stump, while Ahmri was then caught by the same branches that had ahold of the Raven. While we fought the stump, the creature grabbed onto Skipper and delivered a blow that me believe we had just lost one of our group. While entangled Ahmri was able to help us with the stump, by setting it on fire. That along with the mighty blow that Gundar dealt it we were able to defeat it. The first thing I did while the creature slowly burned away was run to Skipper to find that he was still breathing, just barely. After performing some first aide and making a splint for his broken arm, he came to and was able to walk out of the cave on his own.

While Klaria and the others tried to figure out a way to free now both the Raven and Ahmri, I decided to explore further into the cave. I found two small glowing stones in the floor, and some extremely fine obsidian shards that I collected. I called out to let the others know and Gundar came to investigate. He removed the glowing stones and handed one to me. I then handed it off to Klaria for her to inspect. While she inspected the stone, the Raven told us that if we gave it one of the stones it would be able to free Ahmri and itself. Gundar tossed the Raven the one he had and true to its word, the Raven freed itself and Ahmri.

As a gesture of thanks the Raven dropped 5 feathers telling us that if we ever need its help to hold the feather and think really hard about it, and the Raven will show up to assist us. Klaria was able to determine that the stone was used as a way to cast more magic without getting tired as quickly. I had thought to make it a present to the Chieftains daughter, but if it really helps her, Klaria can keep it.

As we settled down for the night I began to repair my long spear when Ahmri came up and offered to repair it faster. I was a bit skeptical but handed him my spear. He began singing and as I watched I could see the wear and tear of my spear repair itself. After a short time he stopped, handed me the spear, smiled, and walked away.

I looked around our camp at the members of our group and watched as they performed their nightly routine. Could it be possible? For the first time in my life, I might have some friends.

by Skip

So the great hunt was set for today and with the hopes of earning favor with the chieftain hanging in the balance i was eager to take part. It was to my great dismay that I discovered that my village had deemed my skills inadequate. It was at this point a few of us got an idea to go together and after having received my father's blessing and been graced with the blessing of my ancestors me and my compatriots began our journey west. After two days time of marching and toil we came across a clearing; in which we found a behemoth of a stag. While we had planned to chase it into a trap it ran another way. We chased it and dealt many a great blow before it ran off to a cave that was feeding a river. Once inside, we found a poor raven that was trapped by a magical tree. This was obviously was going to be a hard time. After some finagling, we found what we had to kill was a stump and that the stump was protecting some magical birdseed orbs. After being beat unconscious by said stump and having my arm broken it was defeated. I awoke and for our assistance the raven offered us a feather each and said that we could call upon him. My comrades for this great hunt and whom i share the glory with are: Ahmri the Suncaller, Gundar the Fearless, Ohanzee the Spearthrower, and Klaria the Witch. To note my valiant steed Artax was there as well.